Richmond, Virginia – A developing winter storm is expected to bring snow, gusty winds, and hazardous conditions to eastern Virginia this weekend, while officials also warn of dangerous ice conditions on frozen bodies of water.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, increasing clouds are expected Friday as the system develops, followed by scattered snow showers Friday night. Snow is forecast to become more widespread on Saturday, with winds increasing along the coast later in the afternoon and evening.
By Saturday night into Sunday, forecasters indicate conditions will turn snowy and windy, especially along coastal areas. Snow may fall heavy at times, and snow chances extend late into Sunday, with windy conditions lingering overnight. The National Weather Service notes that exact snowfall details will change as the forecast becomes more refined.
A strengthening coastal low offshore could result in strong winds along the coast and gusty conditions inland, which may worsen travel conditions on major corridors such as Interstate 95, Interstate 64, U.S. Route 58, and Interstate 664. Officials also note that this system could lead to significant coastal flooding, depending on final storm evolution.
In addition to the storm timeline, the National Weather Service issued a strong ice safety warning. Officials stress that ponds, creeks, and rivers may appear frozen but the ice is thin and unstable. Residents are urged not to walk or stand on any frozen body of water, as temperatures have not supported safe ice formation. Pet owners are also advised to keep animals off the ice.
Roads and sidewalks may remain slick through the weekend, increasing the risk of slips, falls, and vehicle accidents.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from weather.gov/Wakefield, review travel plans, and take precautions ahead of the weekend storm.
